Hawks star Tom Mitchell vows to bounce back

Hawthorn star Tom Mitchell has vowed to bounce back after undergoing surgery to repair the broken left leg he suffered at training on Friday.

The reigning Brownlow medallist posted several images on Instagram after the operation to thank everyone for their support following the injury.

He also declared that he would resume his career as soon as possible, although he remains unlikely to play this year.

"The highs and lows can change in a second but I am up for another challenge and will be back out there in no time," Mitchell said.

Advertisement

The 25-year-old broke both his tibia and fibula in the incident. The club immediately called an ambulance, with paramedics treating him on the field before taking him to Epworth Hospital.

Loading

The injury is a major blow to the Hawks as they look to build on last year's impressive rebound which saw them finish the home and away season in the top four.

Mitchell is the team's best player, having won the Brownlow Medal to complement back-to-back best and fairests and All-Australian selection.

The club has until March 15 to add a rookie to their list to replace the ball magnet.

Meanwhile Melbourne, who defeated Hawthorn in the semi-finals last year, also resumed training on Saturday as they look to put themselves in premiership contention. The Demons made a preliminary final last season after more than a decade in the September wilderness.

All clubs will be back training on Monday as they complete their mandated pre-season break.